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CBSE cites students' 'mental agony', postpones Class 12 board exams in UAE until March 16
The decision was taken after a “critical review” of the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war, and applies to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Iran as well
- PUBLISHED: Mon 9 Mar 2026, 5:24 PM UPDATED: Tue 10 Mar 2026, 1:08 PM
[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog amid US-Israel-Iran war for the latest regional developments.]
India's Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Monday postponed Class 12 board exams in several Middle East countries, including UAE.
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This decision followed after a review of the current regional conflict and concerns about student wellbeing. In a circular, CBSE said it had decided to delay the exams planned between March 12 and March 16 across the region. The decision will be implemented in CBSE-affiliated schools in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Iran.
According to the board, the decision was taken after a “critical review” of the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war, as well as the "mental agony" and stress students face as they prepare for examinations.
“The Board has decided to postpone the examinations scheduled from March 12 to March 16. The new dates shall be announced later,” the circular stated.
Authorities said it would reassess the situation on March 14 and take an appropriate decision regarding the remaining examinations scheduled from March 16 onwards.
The board advised students to remain in contact with their respective schools for updates and to closely follow official announcements regarding revised examination schedules.
On March 7, the examinations for Class 12 students scheduled to take place between March 9 and March 11, was postponed.
CBSE had already postponed Class 10 aboard exams in the Middle East regions. The exams scheduled for Thursday, March 5, and Friday, March 6, in schools in Bahrain, Iran, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE were postponed.
Ajanta Paul is a Senior Editor on the Digital team. A natural leader and newshound, she thrives in breaking news and high-pressure situations — and enjoys reporting on community issues that matter to UAE residents.
